SpaceX will launch its next-generation Starship SN20 rocket next month after successfully testing its deep space Raptor Vacuum engine, Elon Musk has confirmed. The launch will be the first orbital flight for the Mars-bound craft, which is being built to transport people and cargo around the Solar System. Previous Starship prototypes have performed high-altitude flight tests from SpaceX's Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas, but the next stage of development requires a massive Super Heavy rocket in order to propel it to orbit. The November test will see Starship SN20 launch from Starbase before separating from the booster rocket and touching down 90 minutes later off the coast of Hawaii. SpaceX will attempt to catch the Super Heavy rocket using "robot chopsticks" attached to the launch tower – named'Mechazilla' by Mr Musk – that will guide it back down onto the pad.

SpaceX will soon make a fifth attempt to launch and land its Starship rocket, Elon Musk has revealed. The SpaceX boss confirmed that a static fire test of Starship SN15's Raptor engines was completed on Monday and that preparations were underway for a high-altitude flight "later this week". The rocket is already at the launchpad of SpaceX's Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas, and local road closures are in place for Tuesday and Wednesday. SpaceX has also sought clearance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), while weather conditions appear to be favourable despite some moderate winds. Four previous successful launches of Starship prototypes have ended in unsuccessful landings.